The system PMIC integrates all power supplies for the i.MX-8M processors and system peripherals. In addition to a high-efficiency buck converter with a maximum efficiency of 95%, the system also includes most of the necessary protection functions. This shortens development time, reduces dimensions, and simplifies system design.
“ROHM remains a valuable i.MX system partner. The BD71837MWV is a good choice for i.MX8M customers looking for a single-chip power solution,” explains Leonardo Azevedo, i.MX Senior Director for Marketing at NXP Semiconductors.
In recent years, numerous IoT applications with smart speakers have enabled voice control followed by audio/video streaming. NXP's i.MX-8M family features up to four ARM Cortex-A53 and Cortex-4 cores. It offers flexible storage options. Other specifications include Full 4K Ultra HD and HDR video functionality, high-fidelity audio playback, up to 20 audio channels, and DSD512 audio support. The highly integrated design, which combines audio, video, and machine learning into a single platform, provides seamless connectivity and an intuitive user experience.
To provide the ideal power supply for i.MX-8M processors, the BD71837MWV utilizes ROHM's analog power supply technology. Convenience, ease of use, and a rich user experience continue to drive the demand for powerful System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions. However, high-performance applications for graphics, video, and audio processing often present conflicting demands regarding power supply and thermal design. They require higher performance in a smaller footprint, while maintaining high peak performance and low standby power consumption (the latter due to both regulations and application scenarios such as always-on devices with voice interfaces).
The BD71837MWV meets these requirements while maintaining the smallest BOM parts list for power management systems. Furthermore, the highly integrated chip reduces the number of external components and, consequently, the PCB footprint by 45% (when using a single-sided Type 3 PCB). Thanks to its software programmability and On-Time Programmability (OTP), ROHM's new PMIC can be easily adapted to a wide variety of system designs.
Key Features
1. All-in-One Power Solution Optimized for i.MX-8M Processors
The BD71837MWV power supply circuitry is designed to power the i.MX-8M processor family. It integrates an 8-buck converter, seven LDOs, and control logic. This allows for powering both the processor and the necessary DDR memory, all on a single chip. It also incorporates a 1.8V/3.3V power switch for SDXC cards, a 32,768 kHz quartz oscillator, and various protection circuits against short circuits, overvoltage/overcurrent at the output, and thermal shutdown.
High efficiency of 83% to 95% is achieved during step-down conversion with output voltages from 0.7V to 3.3V. The wide input voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V supports a variety of power sources, from batteries to USB. This makes the PMIC the ideal solution for i.MX-8M applications.
Power sequencing, SoC-PMIC control signaling, and power state changes are automatically handled by the hardware control logic. The BD71837MWV supports all i.MX-8M low-power states, such as SNVS and Suspend. With all but two power lines in the "on" state, the IC consumes only 30 µA in SNVS and 137 µA in standby. Communication with the host processor is via I2C, enabling operation at 100/400 kHz and 1 MHz.
2. The compact QFN package saves space and reduces the BOM.
All necessary power supply functions are integrated into a compact 8 mm x 8 mm QFN package with 68 pins. The pin layout is designed for easy connection to the NXP i.MX-8M processor and DDR memory. Compared to discrete solutions, 56 fewer components are required, and the PCB footprint is reduced by up to 45 percent. Double-sided mounting of all power management functions allows for board dimensions of less than 400 mm².
3. Adaptable to System Design
: To ensure greater flexibility in application design, the BD71837MWV features a sequencer compatible with the power modes supported by i.MX-8M processors (Run, Idle, Suspend, SNVS, Off). The I2C interfaces and OTP-ROM can be used to adjust switching conditions for power mode, enable/disable protection functions, control power on/off, and adjust the voltage of each power supply for the memory types and functions required by the system. This allows for optimal performance based on application needs.
4. The proven solution and extensive support ensure rapid design with minimal risk.
The operation of the BD71837MWV PMIC has been verified with the i.MX-8M-SoC. This reduces development time and enables on-time product launch. ROHM has created guidelines, reference circuits, and designs for peripheral applications required for design. A PMIC evaluation board is also available, allowing users to verify operation beforehand.
